Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Monday declared that disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Kirti Azad for allegedly smoking an e-cigarette inside the Parliament premises. Birla stressed that maintaining the dignity of the House is paramount and any breach of decorum will be met with strict action as per parliamentary rules.
Speaker's Stern Warning on Parliamentary Decorum
Addressing the House, Speaker Om Birla issued a clear directive to all parliamentarians to uphold the sanctity and decorum of the Lok Sabha. He stated that the investigation process is nearing completion and once finalized, an action plan will be formulated and sent to the relevant committee for due process. "It will not be possible for anyone to spoil the dignity of the House," Birla asserted emphatically.
He framed it as a collective responsibility, adding, "You will have to maintain decorum inside the House and the one who does not maintain decorum will be punished under the rules and procedures of the Parliament. Action will be taken. Action will be taken as per the rules." This strong statement underscores a zero-tolerance policy towards behaviour deemed disrespectful to parliamentary proceedings.
The Complaint and the Alleged Violation
The controversy stems from a complaint filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Anurag Thakur during the ongoing Winter Session. In his formal letter to the Speaker, Thakur alleged that Kirti Azad was "seen openly using an electronic cigarette while seated in the House." He claimed the act was clearly visible to several other members present.
Thakur termed the alleged act a serious violation of parliamentary conduct and a grave breach of rules. Crucially, he reminded the Chair that the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act, 2019, bans the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, sale, distribution, storage, and advertisement of e-cigarettes across India. This national law adds a significant legal dimension to the alleged misconduct within Parliament.
Video Evidence and Escalating Row
Adding fuel to the fire, BJP leader Amit Malviya shared a 35-second video clip on social media that purportedly shows the incident. The video appears to show Azad sitting in the Lok Sabha chamber, bringing his cupped right hand to his mouth and holding it there for a few seconds in a gesture resembling vaping.
The incident has sparked a wider debate on adherence to rules within the hallowed halls of Parliament. The Speaker's prompt assurance of action highlights the institution's attempt to self-regulate and enforce discipline among its members, setting a precedent for future conduct.
As the investigation moves forward, all eyes will be on the committee's decision and the nature of the disciplinary action taken against the TMC MP, marking a firm stance on upholding protocol.
